Model & approach
- Represent the complete machine with engine, coolers, fan and hydraulic components
- Assess airflow, pressure loss and temperature distribution together
- Study openings, fan selection and thermal protection as variants
Project / Construction machinery
Airflow and thermal management in a mortar machine
A full-machine CFD assessment investigated why the existing fan and airflow arrangement did not meet the cooling requirement.
Engineering question
High pressure loss and internal heat accumulation limited cooling of the engine, coolers and hydraulic system.
Boundary conditions
- Existing enclosure and component positions as the baseline
- Engine and hydraulic losses as thermal loads
- Inlet, outlet and fan characteristic included in the system model
Results of the assessment
- The existing flow path created more resistance than was favorable for the cooling task.
- Covers and internal components disrupted intake and discharge flow.
- Heat from the exhaust region further increased the internal air temperature.
Engineering consequence
Additional enclosure openings, revised fan selection and insulation around the exhaust manifold were proposed for the redesign.
Context
The described measures are simulation recommendations; no final physical test is documented.
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